
Mamelodi Sundowns faced disappointment with a goalless draw against AS Maniema Union from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in their CAF Champions League opener at Loftus Stadium on Tuesday.
The match kicked off with Sundowns controlling possession as anticipated, while Maniema opted for a compact setup, aiming to disrupt Sundowns’ central gameplay and exploit counterattacks.
The visitors had to make an early substitution in the eighth minute, replacing Mola Otinga with Kanu Jonathan due to a muscle injury.
Lucas Ribeiro Costa nearly found the back of the net in the 15th minute with a long-range effort that sought to catch Efonge Brudel off guard, but the goalkeeper made a vital save, conceding only a corner.
Shortly after, Teboho Mokoena executed a brilliant free-kick from the edge of the area, aiming for the top corner, but Efonge was on hand to thwart him.
Marcelo Allende had the final chance of the first half, but his attempt was comfortably saved by the goalkeeper, keeping the scoreline unchanged at halftime.
Renewed vigor marked Sundowns’ second-half approach, as they aimed for the opening goal through a series of assaults. Allende delivered a ball over the Maniema defense to find Arthur Sales, but Efonge’s swift reflexes denied him a goal.
In the 62nd minute, Sundowns missed a prime opportunity when Ribeiro assisted Thapelo Morena in the box, but his timid shot went directly to the goalkeeper.
Maniema exerted some pressure with four consecutive corner kicks and nearly caught Sundowns off guard, hitting the crossbar with a shot from Moanda Exaucia after the Sundowns defense failed to clear the ball effectively.
With tension rising, Mngqithi made a double substitution in the 70th minute, introducing Peter Shalulile and Neo Maema for Erwin Saavreda and Kobamelo Kodisang. Costa unleashed another fierce shot from beyond the box, but Efonge was able to tip it over the bar, helped by the post.
Despite their relentless efforts, Sundowns could not find the net and are left contemplating a disappointing beginning to their Champions League campaign. This marks the first time since the 2018/19 season, when they lost 2-1 to Nigerian side Lobu Stars under coach Pitso Mosimane, that Sundowns have failed to win their opening group stage match.
On that previous occasion, Sundowns managed to bounce back and finished second behind Wydad Casablanca.
Coach Manqoba Mngqithi, whose team came into this match after a defeat in the Carling Knockout Cup final to Magesi FC over the weekend, will be aiming for a revival in their next five matches.